Century of Cents: 4-H Alberta salutes 100 Years of 4-H in Canada

Courtesy of Gateway Gazette

In celebration of 100 years of 4-H in Canada, as well as the end of the Canadian penny in 2013, 4-H Alberta has created Century of Cents – a yearlong collection of history and coins. The result will feature a large plaque with a penny made in each year from 1913 – 2013 accompanied by a 4-H highlight, showcasing the history of 4-H in Alberta over the past 100 years.


“This unique initiative is a tribute to the rich history of 4-H in Alberta as a way to commemorate the organization’s 100th anniversary in Canada,” states Rob Smith, Events Chairman, Alberta 4-H Centennial Celebrations Committee. “4-H clubs, leaders, programs, staff, alumni, and sponsors all have the chance to be part of this once-in-a-century opportunity.”

Everyone with a connection to 4-H, whether current or past, is encouraged to become involved in Century of Cents. It’s as simple as choosing an important event, milestone, or achievement, then tracking down a penny made in that year, and filling out the application form available on www.4h.ab.ca. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2013. Based on the applications received, members of the 4-H Alberta Centennial Events Committee will designate highlight(s) for every year from 1913 – 2013.

“The history of 4-H in this province is very diverse, and we want to capture the tremendous diversity with Century of Cents,” explains Smith. “Highlights can include special anniversaries, events, trips, celebrations, contests, tributes – the options are endless. We really hope generations of 4-Hers in Alberta pore through their history books and photo albums, and share these memories with us to create a truly remarkable Century of Cents legacy.”

Another component of Century of Cents is a yearlong collection of pennies, coins, and cash of all denominations. Funds will be combined at year-end and split equally between the Alberta 4-H Legacy Fund as well as Food Banks across the province as part of a national 4-H 100th anniversary food bank campaign. Donations can be made by issuing a cheque to the 4-H Foundation of Alberta, with tax receipts provided for donations $25 and over.

For more information about 4-H Alberta’s celebration of the Canadian 4-H centennial, visit www.4h.ab.ca. For more information about Century of Cents, contact Vanessa Goodman, Alberta 4-H Centennial Celebrations Events Committee Member, at 780.231.9802 or vpgoodman@yahoo.ca.